Prime Minister Keir Starmer has confirmed that the United Kingdom will not participate in offensive military strikes against Iran, despite allowing the United States to use British bases for defensive operations. In a statement to Parliament, Starmer stressed that Britain was not involved in the initial wave of attacks and will focus solely on protecting UK personnel and supporting collective self-defence.
“We were not involved in the initial strikes on Iran, and we will not join offensive action now,” Starmer said. He added that the US would use British bases for defensive purposes, aiming to destroy Iran’s capability to fire more missiles. The prime minister emphasised that this approach is the best way to protect British interests and lives while preventing further escalation.
The decision has drawn criticism from both the left and right, with some accusing Starmer of contradicting his earlier pledge not to get involved. US President Donald Trump expressed disappointment, but Starmer defended his judgment, stating: “It is my duty to judge what is in Britain’s national interest. That is what I’ve done and I stand by it.”
Meanwhile, the RAF Akrotiri base in Cyprus was struck by a drone overnight, though the Ministry of Defence determined the attack occurred before Starmer’s announcement. Two additional drones were shot down heading towards the base. Defence Secretary John Healey announced the temporary relocation of families living at the base as a precaution, while Greece committed to sending two frigates and two F-16 fighter jets to bolster Cyprus’s defences.
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper dismissed claims that the UK is being dragged into an Iraq-style conflict, calling them “simply not true”. She highlighted the threat to an estimated 300,000 British citizens in Gulf countries, noting that 102,000 have registered their presence. The government is working with airlines and local authorities to support those unable to return due to closed airspace and grounded flights.
